Sector is losing childcare workers
Childcare workers can earn more working in their local supermarket according to a group representing the sector.
And, Frances Byrne, Director of Policy and Advocacy with Early Childhood Ireland, said school leavers were unlikely to consider a career in the sector. Ms Byrne was commenting following a pre-Budget event which was attended by Deputies Tony McLoughlin and Eamon Scanlon in Dublin.
“Despite the incredible commitment of our members, our sector is crippled because of historical, chronic underinvestment. Due to the lack of investment over many years, our providers cannot afford to pay competitive salaries or offer job security. The result is that skilled professionals are leaving the sector in their droves. They can earn more working in their local supermarket than in their local childcare service.
According to Early Childhood Ireland: The average wage – across all experience levels – in the early-years sector is €11.93 per hour (the ‘ living wage’ in Ireland is currently €11.90 per hour).